The New York State Council on Developmental Disabilities is pleased to announce an award of $150,000 per year for two years to New York State Industries for the Disabled, Inc. (NYSID) to develop a new statewide initiative designed to help New York employers strengthen inclusive hiring practices for people with disabilities.
Research shows that New Yorkers overwhelmingly support workplace inclusion. Polling conducted by Global Strategy Group found that 93% of bipartisan voters believe it is important for workplaces to be inclusive, yet only 42% believe employers are currently doing enough to support individuals with disabilities. This new certification program is designed to help bridge that gap by providing employers with practical, accessible training on disability inclusion, hiring, and retention.
Over the course of the two-year project, NYSID will develop a series of 10–12 interactive online courses that provide human resource professionals, hiring managers, and other employment decision-makers with the knowledge and tools needed to create more inclusive workplaces. The program will launch publicly during the fourth quarter of the first year with an initial six courses, followed by an additional 4–6 courses in the second year. Course content will be developed in collaboration with disability employment experts and partner organizations.
Project activities include:
- Conducting polling and needs assessments to identify employer preferences and potential barriers to participation.
- Collaborating with partner agencies and subject matter experts to develop course content.
- Building an interactive e-learning platform to deliver the certification program.
- Launching the first six certification courses, covering:
- Employment First and the Social Impact of Hiring
- ADA Compliance
- Workplace Accommodations
- The Hiring Process
- The Financial Aspects of Hiring People with Disabilities
- Building an Inclusive Workplace Environment
